The governor has declared a state of emergency in Scioto County due to the damage done by Hurricane Helene’s flooding and high winds.

Gov. Mike DeWine made the declaration on Wednesday designating emergencies in Scioto, Pike, Lawrence, and Jackson counties.

This designation highlights the damages done by power outages and downed trees that have impacted roadways and homes.

“This declaration of a state of emergency will give the State the ability to expedite assistance to these communities,” DeWine said. “We will continue to monitor needs and help communities in Southern Ohio recover from the damage and remove large amounts of debris from the recent storm event.”

On Friday, Sept. 27, the southern Ohio region was lashed by remnants of Hurricane Helene.

The rain caused flooding countywide, including in the city of Portsmouth, with waters rising quickly.

Downed trees across roads, homes, and infrastructure caused emergency situations and damages for residents throughout Scioto County.

Locals who have experienced structural damage to their home should contact the Scioto County Emergency Management Agency at (740) 355-8300.

This applies whether the caller is an owner or a renter.

Locals should also report severe weather damage to the local EMA office by filling out their storm damage assessment form.

This allows Scioto County EMA to triage the damage and do assessments that may assist in gaining state recover assistance.

“I appreciate the Governor’s swift response to the damage Scioto County currently faces as a result of the storms last weekend,” said Rep. Justin Pizzulli, R-Franklin Furnace. “It’s important that we rally together as a community as we work to rebuild what was impacted.

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is currently working with County Emergency Management Agencies to assess damage and offer assistance where it’s needed.

Scioto County residents who have experienced damages due to the Sept. 27 weather event should

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